By: Howard Ankin
The Ankin Law Office

While industrial jobs are hard to find in this economy, service-based roles have increased, causing more employees to suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, a painful disorder that is discomforting and sometimes there can be numbness of the hands. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is at the forefront of the new workplace and a significant health problem today. Because Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common workplace injury, it is considered to be a worker’s compensation claim and there are many workers compensation questions surrounding it.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a Repetitive Stress Injury (RSI). CTS occurs when wrists are exposed to persistent and repetitive strain. The tissues surrounding the tendons become so enlarged that they compress the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel, a passage in the wrist. CTS can cause the following symptoms though they can be different for everyone:

• Numbness, tingling and pain in the hand, wrist and forearm
• Impaired or lost nerve function
• Reduced muscle control
• Reduced grip strength

Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome considered a work-related injury under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act?
Yes, the Illinois Supreme Court has said that because Carpal Tunnel Syndrome develops gradually and is not as the result of a sudden accident, employees can be compensated from the onset of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome under the Act.

What medical benefits am I entitled to after I develop Carpal Tunnel Syndrome at work?
For workers compensation claims you are entitled to receive 100 percent of all medical expenses that are reasonable and necessary to treat your condition. These include, but are not limited to, emergency room services, doctors’ visits, inpatient and outpatient hospital care, and prescriptions.

What wage benefits am I entitled to while I am off work because of my Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
For workers compensation claims you are entitled to temporary total disability compensation (TTD) while you are off work and are under active medical treatment. Temporary total disability compensation is based on a percentage of your average weekly wage, including overtime.

Will I be entitled to receive any other benefits after I return to work at my regular job after being treated for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
You may be entitled to receive compensation for the partial permanent loss of use of your hands or arms as a result of contracting CTS while on the job. Such compensation is called permanent partial disability compensation (PPD), and is received as the result of a settlement agreement between you and your employer, or as the result of the decision of the arbitrator assigned to your claim.
If you do need to make a claim for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, an experienced attorney from our offices can help you navigate the various options in order to receive the proper compensation for your injuries.

Disclaimer: The content contained in this column is for informational use only and for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should not rely upon the information discussed in this column for an analysis of your legal issue. If you have a legal question, please call The Ankin Law Office for a confidential telephone consultation; toll-free (800) 442-6546 Local: (312) 346-8780. Please feel free to visit our website at www.ankinlaw.com.